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Wall of Honor Level:
Air and Space Leader

Honored by:
Ms. Joan P. Burks

The National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) honored A. Roy Burks for his significant and lasting contributions to the nation's reconnaissance programs at ceremonies at its headquarters in Chantilly, VA September 27, 2000. The NRO designs, builds and operates the nation's spy satellites. Mr. Burks served as the NRO and Central Intelligence Agency's technical director of the first successful imaging satellite program, called CORONA. He played a pivotal role in the development and improvements of the CORONA cameras and film recovery system. His skillful integration of Air Force, CIA and contractor teams ensured the long-term success of our nation's first space imaging system. Mr. Burks had a commemorative plaque unveiled in the NRO headquarters building and received a citation honoring his distinguished performance from Mr. Keith Hall, NRO Director, and Mr. George Tenet, Director of the Central Intelligence Agency.
Mr. Burks was also responsible for the Smithsonian CORONA exhibit, which has been on display at the Air and Space Museum on the mall since 1995. As such I believe it is appropriate the Smithsonian Institution also recognize him for his contributions.